Final answer:
The primary difference between Protestant and Catholic beliefs is that Catholics recognize the pope as the supreme authority of the Church, which Protestants reject. The correct answer to the question is A . Catholics give spiritual authority to the pope, as this captures the central division between these two branches of Christianity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary difference between Protestant and Catholic beliefs centers on the spiritual authority of the pope. Catholics recognize the pope as the Vicar of Christ on earth and the supreme authority of the Church. Protestants, arising from the Protestant Reformation, reject the papal authority and often emphasize the primacy of the Scripture alone (sola scriptura) for guiding faith and practice.
Differences Between Protestant and Catholic Beliefs
Among the options provided:
Catholics give spiritual authority to the pope - This is true, as the pope is considered the leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Catholics allow priests to marry - This is generally false, as Catholic priests take a vow of celibacy, though there are some exceptions such as in the Eastern Catholic churches.
Catholics believe the Bible is the only source of truth - This is false, Catholics also regard the traditions of the Church and the Magisterium (teaching authority) as important sources of truth.
Catholics allow birth control - This is generally false, as the Catholic Church traditionally opposes artificial means of birth control, advocating natural family planning methods instead.
Based on the options and the context provided, choice A . Catholics give spiritual authority to the pope best describes the difference between Protestant and Catholic beliefs.